Richard McCormick

Ret. Chief Warrant Officer 5 Richard “Bruce” McCormick joined in the U.S. Army Reserve in 1985 while attending college. He advanced to the rank of staff sergeant before being selected for Warrant Officer Candidate School followed by flight school where he began his aviation career on active duty. McCormick deployed in support of Operation Desert Storm in 1991 and six times to the Middle East over the course of his career. During his deployments, McCormick sustained multiple injuries, including traumatic brain injuries, post-traumatic stress disorder, and chronic neck and lower back issues. In 2005, he suffered a career-ending ankle injury that led to 10 surgeries with leading foot and ankle specialists repairing a crushed talus. After several attempts to restore function, doctors ultimately fused his ankle, which disqualified him from flying. After 36 years of service, he was medically retired from the Army. Throughout his career, McCormick has served in numerous leadership positions. Today, he continues to challenge himself within his limits and credits his wife and family for their unwavering support throughout his journey.